Top 25 Design Trends for 2012- pt. 4

Light It Up
Lighting design will continue to rise. Whether using a pin spot to accent a centerpiece,a color wash to highlight an entire wall, uplighting, lit tables and trees, or gobos to stencil a pattern, monogram, or name in lights, lighting creates a scene like nothing else.

Uplighting

The "Unbook" Guestbook
Brush aside the standard book and use photo scrapbooks, framed sports jerseys, a quilt, old fashioned typewriter, mailbox with postcards or a wishing tree for guestbooks.

Thumbprint Guestbook

Nighttime Nuptials
Outdoor, evening weddings are a great way to combat a summer heat wave, create an aura of romance, or stand apart from other weddings and events. Hanging crystals in trees, using candlelight and well-placed lighting create ambiance and highlight the natural environment.

Nighttime Outdoor Wedding

Top 25 Design Trends for 2012- Pt. 3

Luxury Weddings
At once upscale and intimate, couples who can afford to do so are spending the money for unforgettable weddings- whether on a private island or yacht or aboard a catamaran with their closest family and friends in attendance during daytime, evening or romantic sunset.

Nautical Wedding

Groom Grooming
Weddings are no longer all about the bride. Today's groom is more fashion- conscious and concerned with personal appearance. Custom designed men's wear, grooming services, and personalized fashion elements like colorful socks or no socks at all, unique footwear, suspenders, hats, or other details are finding their way into the groom's preparations.

Groom Grooming

Elaborate Desserts
Cake Pops, candy or sundae bars, specialty tea and coffee stations all add flair to accompany traditional wedding cakes. Other options include s'more stations or dessert bars with decadent sweets like truffles, chocolate fondue, caramel creme brulee, and mousse shooters.

Cake Balls/ Cake Pops

Top 25 Design Trends for 2012 -Pt.2

Fashion Forward
 Today's gowns are a mix of Victorian, romantic, classic and modern. In 2012, we'll see more fairy- tale dresses along with the return of cap sleeves and bolero jackets, though strapless, backless, or halter styles will remain. Dresses will be full or fitted with rouching, gathering, and other unique elements in delicate fabrics like tulle, lace, chiffon, and organza. Detailing like crystal beading, embroidery, and dots will add accent. Brides wanting to express individuality can mix things up with modern elements like bold statement jewelry, color accents or dyed crinoline. With the return of vintage styles, we're also seeing a resurgence in the change-of-dress tradition. Today's twist, however, is to change dresses midway through the reception rather than as you leave.

Lace Dress

Themed Engagement Sessions
Photo sessions held before the wedding day aren't only a chance for the couple to get familiar with their photographer, they're an opportunity to have a little fun, show their personal style, or tell a story. The pictures can even be incorporated into announcements or their big day.

Themed Engagement Session

Unconventional Spaces
Hosting a wedding in an unconventional environment makes a dramatic statement about a couple's personality and adds panache to the day. Consider spaces like a library, an art gallery, a rooftop, or a zoo- the options are only limited by your imagination.

Library Reception

Top 25 Design Trends for 2012- pt. 1

Wedding Planner Magazine has compiled a list of 25 trends to be looking for in 2012, I thought I would share them and hopefully inspire some of you...


Rustic Charm
Adding rustic, natural elements with an upscale flair to indoor/outdoor weddings is increasing in popularity. This rustic chic style is illustrated with flea market finds that compliment the modern attire, floral, linens and food. Think mason jars filled with homemade jelly as take-aways, floral centerpieces in old tobacco tins, burlap runners,place cards tacked to a country fence, outdoor hanging chandeliers, and other antique elements refurbished to seamlessly blend the pastoral countryside with modern romance.

Cozy up to Burlap

Branding

Branding indelibly marks or identifies a product. For weddings, that translates into making a defining statement about who a couple is and sharing it with their guests. It's being used as design and marketing tools to identify styles or personalities, and then brand it onto every aspect of the day- from venue and colors to invitations and attire. Creating a branding style doesn't have to end with your wedding day. You can use it in the future to identify events associated with you and spouse like celebrations, holidays and birth announcements. 

Wedding Branding

Check back, more 2012 design trends will be posted in the near future!...

I Spy!!

Disposable cameras are a cute idea and fun for the guests. They're especially fabulous for keeping younger guests entertained throughout the night. Sadly though, sometimes they either: a) don't get used, or b) the pictures are all too dark/blurry/etc to get a good picture. It's quite sad. But fear not! For here is a great idea that: a) gets the pictures used up, and b) creates specific subjects to seek out- and yet even with the same subject, each picture will have a brilliantly different angle and point of view :) 

Check it out here on Pinterest

An interactive guestbook! After the wedding, you could hang this as an art piece in your home.

Check it out here on Pinterest

Don't forget to have some hand wipes or a damp cloth in the immediate vicinity for guests to clean excess ink (in your wedding colors) off of their thumbs. Also, be sure to have a few skinny pens or sharpies on hand for name signing around each thumb print.

Save the Dates

I've recently discovered Pinterest, an online pinboard filled with endless pictures and ideas.

If you're looking for inspiration for your save the dates, check out these cute ideas:

wemetinabar.wordpress.com

bridalmusings.com

etsy.com

Centerpieces

blog.weddingpaperdivas.com

What's the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of centerpieces? Typically, the answer is flowers and there's nothing wrong with that, but do something different with them. Ideas include vases of different dimensions, different floral arrangements (don't do the same thing on each table), arrange the flowers in a shape other than a circle or square- like an eiffel tower. It can be something as simple as adding a few drops of food coloring that match your colors to the water, add pearls or fruit such as lemons, oranges, and limes (great for spring and summer weddings) to the bottom, add candles around the arrangement. 

interiordec.about.com

If you're having a fall wedding, use apples, pumpkins, leaves as a large part of the centerpieces.

s295.photobucket.com

Shells and sand- try colored!- are perfect for a beach themed wedding. 

Interactive centerpieces are great, too. Think about doing a simple cake- a different flavor for each table?- instead of having sheet cakes back in the kitchen. 

weddingfavormart.com

A money saver would be to double the centerpieces as favors. Imagine small, potted plants, or picture frames with different pictures in each.

magicmomentspartiesandeventsinc.blogspot.com

For a real conversation starter and something guests will talk about long after the wedding, how about suspended flowers?

Bars, Bars, Bars

Open Bars, also known as a hosted bar, are the most popular and least expensive type of bar. The bride and groom pay for all the liquor and alcohol either in advance (giving a limit to the supply) or post- party.

Cash Bars, also known as a no-host bar. Similar to a nightclub, the guest pays for their own drinks. This is sometimes seen in bad taste or as tacky because you're asking your guests to pay for something at your party but it may also force the guest to limit their alcohol intake- resulting in less drinking and driving afterwards. *Signature drinks are traditionally free with this option*


DIY Bars are just that, do it yourself. You provide basic liquor from a wholesaler- vodka, gin, rum, bourbon, and scotch, a basic red and white wine, one or two popular beers. Also include a few popular mixes- orange and cranberry juices, coke, ginger ale, and tonic. Check with your local liquor store, most will take back unopened bottles. Remember, it's better to have too much and return leftovers after the wedding than to have to little and to make an emergency run/s for more. As a DIY you will also need to provide a bartender- check with your venue for license requirements, assorted glasses, bar  towels, swizzle sticks, cocktail napkins, ice buckets, lemons and limes. You may also need consent from the reception venue to provide your own liquor.

Alternative Bars

*Cash Bar with Tickets: the host provides tickets for guests to have a limited number of free drinks and anything beyond that is on the guests' tab.

*Unique Bars such as candy bars, cappuccino and coffee bars, hot chocolate bars, smoothie, milkshake and/or ice cream sundae bars.






*Serve one or two signature drinks- which are traditionally served during the cocktail or dinner hour- if you have more than one you could choose do one drink during cocktail hour and another during your dinner hour.

Limited Bars have a limit on the alcohol selection. Typically, it's just a selection of wine and alcoholic punch.

Other Things to Be Aware Of
*Look into Party Alcohol Insurance. PAI covers the hosts for any damage to the property and in case of drinking related incident lawsuits. The host is required to provide one sober supervisor per 50 people- a bartender fits this bill.
*General etiquette says if there is a dinner hour, the bar is closed. So if you're having a 5 hour reception, the bar is open for 4 hours- unless you set a different time to close the bar.

Average Wichita Wedding Cost Total

According to www.costofwedding.com, the average couple getting married in Wichita, spends an average of $20,215 but it could be anywhere from $15,161 to $25,269 based on things like the number of guests- typically 143-157 and the professionals enlisted to make your day everything you want. The market average in the US is $24,066. In New York City, the average is $29,180.

Engagement Rings

A recent study done by home insurance firm, Liverpool Victoria, grooms-to-be used to spend about 3 months' salary on a ring  but today, 2/3's of that number are spending about 3 weeks' salary. So while in 2007 men were spending $8,000 on his fiancé's ring, they're now spending about $2,000. The study also found that more than 50% of surveyed women had absolutely no idea how much their ring cost- but figured about a months' salary. 40% of surveyed men refused to tell how much they spent and 3% confessed to lying about how much they spent- spending less than they said they did.

Wedding Details

 

 

This gorgeous wedding is so captivating because of the details.  When designing your wedding, remember to pay attention to detail.  It's not the most fun part of planning, but it will pay off in a huge way.  Remember, every element of your wedding should have a purpose and should lend itself to the overall wedding design.
Photos: http://www.flourishstudiophotography.com/blog/?p=2748

All You Need to Know About Wedding Tipping

Although it is not obligatory to tip, it is customary to show gratitude to those who helped make your wedding a success.  Here are a few guidelines to help you know how much to tip various vendors.

One thing to remember, you do not need to tip owners.  If a photographer owns a studio, or a hairstylist owns a salon, you do not need to tip.  Same goes for bands not chosen from an agency.

Hairstylists/ Makeup artists, who are not owners:  15%-20% of total bill if you go to a salon; tips are at your discretion if they come to you.

Ceremony Musicians:  $20-$25 each should be offered by the best man.

Bartenders:  10% of the liquor bill to be split among the bar staff.

Officiant:  While city officials cannot accept tips, a reasonable tip for clergy members is $75-$100.

Delivery People:  These tips are to be offered on the spot.  Somewhere between $5-$25 depending on time and work that was put in to the items (cakes, flowers, etc.).

Waitstaff:  If gratuity is not included in the total bill, 15%-20% of the bill is a decent tip to be split among the waiters.

Photo: http://www.whatitcosts.com/img/wedding-tipping3.gif

Bridal Expo

 

Join us at the July Expo for great wedding ideas and savings!

Jubilation Events will have a walk-through booth will several tablescapes set up for you to admire.  Each table will have a different color and a different theme.

Come ready to make an appointment with us!  Or get more information on Blush Brides, I Do Redo, and future events!

The Expo is Saturday, July 30 from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. & Sunday, July 31 from 12 noon- 4 p.m at Century II.

We look forward to seeing you!

Summer Party: Sundae Best

There are countless benefits to throwing a summer ice cream party--including getting to say, "I'm having an ice cream social!" in your most wholesome Leave It To Beaver voice.  When it comes to this event, you can make your party as casual or as elaborate as you wish!  Even the most elaborate ice cream party is pretty easy to put on.

The simpler the ice cream choices, the crazier you can get with the toppings.  Of course, you will have the typical hot fudge, marshmallow sauce, caramel, and strawberry sauce.  But don't be afraid to have some fun with it!  Add fresh fruit bowls, granola, various candy bar pieces, and even some broken up pretzels and nuts.

And before inviting the whole neighborhood, think about how many people you can realistically host.
Be sure you have enough for everybody!
Count on each person eating three 1/2 cup scoops.  That will make 1 1/2 cups per person.

Happy scooping!














Pictures:  http://www.eatdrinkchic.com/assets/content//DIY_ice-cream_parlour_buffet_big.jpg; http://cdn.blisstree.com/files/2008/06/930066-77389052.jpg

Saving Face

Whether you're a wedding guest or the one saying I do, there are makeup Do's and Don'ts that must be followed.  Wearing too much to a simple ceremony will leave people with the impression that you are trying too hard.  But not wearing enough makeup to a formal wedding will leave you looking like the Miss Havisham homebody who never gets out.
With that, some guidelines:

The Laid-Back Wedding:   If this is a casual affair, you can usually get away with more and showing individual style is accepted in this setting.  So if you like to play with your make-up, now is the time!  So bright colors, a poppy shade on the cheeks or lips, or a jewel-toned eyeliner are all fun, fresh options.

The Outdoor Affair:  Invited to nuptials on the hottest day of the year?  Be sure you have SPF and that your foundation won't get cakey.  Go for a tinted moisturizer and brush a light powder on top to avoid a shiny face in the sunlight.  Skip the lipstick.  And to give your eyes a wide-eyed look, curl your lashes.

After Hours Soiree:  A late, formal wedding involves dressing to the nines.  Remove the day's make-up buildup and give your face a fresh glow.  Apply a luminizer on the cheekbones and a facial highlighter on the brow.  Create a dramatic eye with a fat eyeliner pencil and a thick coat of mascara.  Or, if applying that much on your eyes is too much for you, keep your eyes neutral and play up the lips with a fun coral color.

Time-Crunched Commute:  Just woke up from a "short nap" with only five minutes to get ready and a thirty minute drive?  Jump in your car and go.  At the first stop sign, sweep a bronzer on your cheeks.  At the next red light, apply a rosy shade on your eyes.  This will warm up and freshen your face.  Hit your eyelashes with a curler at the next stop you make.  It is quicker and less messy than trying to fumble around with mascara.  Finally, while walking from your car, put on a tinted gloss or lip color.

Wedding Trends: Late Night Snacks

After the dancing, drinking, and delighting, as your wedding celebration is coming to a close, nothing will please your guests more than a thoughtful nightcap.

Rather than sending them home with more alcohol or an impersonal gift, send them off with a midnight snack!

If you prefer something a little more filling, go for a bagel and cream cheese, grilled cheese and tomato soup shooters, mini-chicken tacos, or a hot dog cart!



Photos courtesy of: http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/photogallery/winter-good-things-for-weddings?xsc=eml_dwd_2010_09_27&#slide_23, http://www.brillianteventplanning.com

Floral Backdrops

A fun way to make your wedding as unique as you are is to have a floral backdrop.

Rather than using flowers as merely centerpieces or bouquets, how about THIS:

at your reception!  Your guests will ooh and aah.  Or even use a floral backdrop at the ceremony:

What a beautiful setting while exchanging vows.  Different flowers will, of course, be available at different times of the year.  But don't be afraid to use some color!  










https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRgdyVa_pTrZoiORQvhRVABoNcrGRQRTPXctZXQ7QbASjpUcMWnGq6JotJdcKeoE26CroSTawBBl3gejTdjMWUGprx9QvIdc8P4Wx_HbyllZv1PLgh2qBJONvEzO4qdPN59ySGDIFFlOI/s1600/flower_wallpaper.jpg
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh1N3-_UBB82Qz2jbIYEYns3YIMK_XTMiJuoVF9pzztVLfJZN22rfvD7jIPtmZcY5TEJPgU8icb-udhr0KvQYXcyqss1Jx_QwMhTnCf0L4yLUjVflbOfA__VC1MpojaFSoKUaiboAvvpBl/s1600/mw105244_0110_hangingflowers_xl1.jpg

I Do Redo Sale!

Your wedding day came and went.
Time to get back the money you spent!


If you have gently-used, never-used, or over-ordered wedding items,   -OR- if you are a new bride in search of great deals, join Jubilation Events at its premiere wedding consignment sale!

Earn fast cash or find the best prices at the I Do Redo sale August 9-14.

As a bride, you can browze through tables and displays of wedding items--knowing you will find only the best price.  Jubilations staff and vendor experts will be on-hand to show you how to repurpose the items you find in fun, new ways!
As a consignor, you can clean out your wedding storage while earning money and helping new brides.  Consignors will receive a 70% commission of their items sold.

To register as a consignor, email Hannah at hanna@idoredo.net.

Check out the I Do Redo website, http://idoredo.net, for more event details.

Summer Gingham Inspiration Board

Summer is almost upon us!
Time for running through sprinklers, picnics in the park, popsicles, frolicking in the pool, and gingham!

A bright gingham wedding or party sounds like a perfect way to celebrate summer.
And, if you decide to have one, pretty pretty please invite me  : )

(Pictures: L to R: Neckties: Etsy, babybystevie | Bouquet: oncewed.com | Cupcake Liners: artfire.com | Table Runner: snippetandink.blogspot.com | Bunting: tabletopsfortotsblog.com)

How to Write Thank-You Notes

Somewhere between childhood's chore of sitting down to write a thank-you on bright colored paper to the ease of just shooting off an email, we forgot etiquette's art of writing a thank-you note.  And grandma is not pleased.  Now that you are a grownup, an email will not do, and more is expected out of you than, "Thanks for the present, you rock!"

Thank-you note-writing is a lovely tradition that has been near-forgotten in this information age.
So, let's revive a little gracious living, shall we?


1.  Be Timely


A thank-you note should be sent within two weeks of the engagement party or shower and eight        weeks upon returning from the honeymoon.


2.  Be Personal

Do not say, "Thank you for the blender."
Rather, express genuine gratitude:  "Dear Bill and Susan,  It was wonderful seeing you at our wedding!  The blender you gave us was such a thoughtful gift...."


3.  Mention Past, Allude to Future


Express the joy of the receiver's presence at your wedding.  Also, tell them of how you plan to use the gift in the future.
"The coffee maker will prove to be a wonderworker for Brad in the mornings--you know how he needs his coffee!  Thank you for thinking of my sanity."


4.  Send Note for Number of Gifts Received


If Aunt June sends you a gift for you engagement, bridal shower, and the wedding, send her three notes--one for each gift.


Now, get it in the mail.

Popular Colors 2011 - Blush Pink

Whether you want the tone of your wedding to say vintage, country-chic, sweet, or romantic, blush pink will work for you. Add this versatile color to your linens, flowers, bridesmaids dresses, invites, and anything else you can get your hands on! It can be well-accented by a multitude of colors, such as cream, gold, lime, navy, tangerine, or the classic black and white. Enjoy!

Country-Chic Wedding

We saw this idea for personalized handkerchief invitations at strictlyweddings.com and loved it! To ensure that all of your handkerchiefs are one-of-a-kind, try searching Ebay for some vintage designs rather than purchasing at a craft store. These are a unique and creative way to invite your loved ones to your country-chic wedding.

DIY Cork Board: A great way to stick with your theme while also showing off you and your fiancé's personalities. You will need:

• LOTS of corks
• Super glue
• A picture frame

 Lay out your corks on the backing of the picture frame to make sure they all fit.  If they do not, you can adjust the size by using a knife to cut down some of the corks.  Once you have your design laid out and you are sure everything fits, glue down the corks one by one.  Let your board dry, then stick the backing in the frame. Add some pictures and your board is complete!

Rice/favor holder from weddingmatters.com